The answer to this question is different depending on you. Do you have a home base that you maintain year round, your tax home?This means that for tax purposes you are a temporary worker if you travel away from your home to work. You must maintain your tax home in order to qualify as a temporary worker. There is also a one year rule for tax purposes with the IRS which states that you can't work in the same area for a period of 12 months and be classified as temporary.
There are a couple of options for your housing if you are on a travel assignment. One option is that the agency or employer you are working for will get your housing set up and provide you with details. However, if the agency provides the housing and something doesn't work out they are stuck with the remainder of the lease. This is one of the reasons that most agencies will try to get you to take the other option where you secure your own housing.
The second option is that you secure your own housing and receive a stipend for monthly housing in addition to your pay rate. This will obviously vary greatly, depending on location as housing costs are substantially different depending on where your assignment takes you. This option can allow you to pocket a few extra dollars if you are able to arrange for adequate housing at a cost less than the monthly stipend. This will require more research and/or knowledge from you the travel nurse, to make sure you have safe, convenient and affordable housing.
And, of course, always remember, nothing is free. There are tax consequences to these choices and you should discuss these options with your accountant or a veteran travel nurse who knows the ins and outs.
As always, we at HCEN are here to help you get the best assignment by putting you in contact with the top agencies in the field. If you want to get startedand you'll be in touch with the people who can find you the right adventure to advance your career and enhance your life.
Mary Crawford, HealthCare Employment Network
